MISS Galaxy Australia 2018 contestant Alicia Van Schoonhoven of Dianella will be opening up to the public about her experience with anxiety and depression at an upcoming book launch.

The 22-year-old was one of 10 women (six from WA) that were interviewed as part of author Adrian Kwan’s book, The Fear to Freedom Project.

The first half of the book featured stories about women’s hardships with mental health, bullying and domestic violence, while the second was based on what people could do for themselves or others and support resources.

Kwan’s book, officially launched in Sydney on December 2, will be launched in Perth on January 24 at the Tuart Hill Community Centre at 6.30pm.

Ms Van Schoonhoven said she wanted to break down the stigma around mental health through the project.

“A lot of people have been appreciative of hearing that sort of story from someone who they would not have expected from,” she said.

“There is a realisation that these sorts of things can happen to anyone; it doesn’t matter who you are, we all have difficulties in our life that we face.”

The mental health promotion officer said she expected about 50 people including organisations like her workplace, Helping Minds, to attend the launch.

“This is all part of my involvement with Miss Galaxy Australia as well,” she said.

“It is a pageant that is based on community work and volunteering so doing whatever you can in the community and making a difference for other people.”